[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 123, 111th Congress, 1st Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
PROCLAMATION 8426--SEPT. 30, 2009

Proclamation 8426 of September 30, 2009
National Disability Employment Awareness Month, 2009
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation

Fair access to employment is a fundamental right of every American,
including the 54 million people in this country living with
disabilities. A job can provide financial stability, help maximize our
potential, and allow us to achieve our dreams. As Americans, we possess
a range of vocational opportunities to make the most of our talents and
succeed in a chosen career; those with disabilities are entitled to the
same opportunities. During National Disability Employment Awareness
Month, we recommit ourselves to implementing effective policies and
practices that increase employment opportunities for individuals with
disabilities.
In the past half-century, we have made great strides toward providing
equal employment opportunities in America, but much work remains to be
done. As part of that continuing effort, we must seek to provide
opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Only then can Ameri-

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cans with disabilities achieve full participation in the workforce and
reach the height of their ambition.
My Administration is committed to promoting positive change for every
American, including those with disabilities. The Federal Government and
its contractors can lead the way by implementing effective employment
policies and practices that increase opportunities and help workers
achieve their full potential. Across this country, millions of people
with disabilities are working or want to work. We must ensure they have
access to the support and services they need to succeed.
Recognizing the need for equal employment opportunities, we must also
strengthen and expand the educational opportunities for individuals with
disabilities. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act substantially
increased funding for the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act,
and provided more than $500 million for vocational rehabilitation
services, including job training, education, and placement. If we are to
build a world free from unnecessary barriers, stereotypes, and
discrimination, we must ensure that every American receives an education
that prepares him or her for future success.
Each day, Americans with disabilities play a critical role in forging
and shaping the identity of our Nation. Their contributions touch us all
through personal experience or through that of a family member,
neighbor, friend, or colleague. We grow stronger as a Nation when
Americans feel the dignity conferred by having the ability to support
themselves and their families through productive work. This month, we
rededicate ourselves to fostering an inclusive work culture that
welcomes the skills and talents of all qualified employees.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of
America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim October 2009, as
National Disability Employment Awareness Month. I call on all Americans
to celebrate the contributions of individuals with disabilities to our
workplaces and communities, and to promote the employment of individuals
with disabilities to create a better, more inclusive America, one in
which every person is rightly recognized for his or her abilities and
accomplishments.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirtieth day of
September, in the year of our Lord two thousand nine, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
fourth.
BARACK OBAMA